The Happy Prince and Other Tales: Illustrated by Charles Robinson

7.95

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Specs

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Description

A pleasure seeking prince, a selfish giant, and more: Wilde’s fairy tales, first published in 1888, for childlike people from eighteen to eighty.”

  • Author: Oscar Wilde
  • Publisher: Everyman's Library
  • Published: 2014-06-18
  • Pages: 110
  • ISBN-13: 9780375712616

Additional information

Author

Oscar Wilde

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Summary

What the internet says

Aggregated insights from reviews and discussions across the web.

Overall reception: Mostly positive

Oscar Wilde's 'The Happy Prince and Other Tales' receives overwhelmingly positive reception across multiple platforms, with readers praising its emotional depth and timeless moral lessons. The collection, first published in 1888, is consistently described as deceptively simple fairy tales that work on multiple levels—enchanting children while offering profound philosophical insights for adults. Reviewers frequently note that these are not typical children's stories but rather poignant explorations of love, sacrifice, compassion, and social inequality. The stories 'The Happy Prince' and 'The Selfish Giant' are particularly beloved, with many readers reporting being moved to tears by their bittersweet endings.

The Charles Robinson illustrated editions receive mixed feedback specifically regarding the artwork. While the Everyman's Library hardcover editions are praised for their beautiful construction, quality binding, and status as treasured keepsakes, some readers express disappointment with Robinson's 'intentionally primitive, brightly-colored' illustrations, having expected more realistic or Art Nouveau-style artwork. Despite this, the consensus is that Wilde's eloquent, poetic prose makes these tales unforgettable, with readers appreciating how the author never talks down to his audience. Multiple reviewers mention being surprised by the Christian symbolism and moral depth, particularly those familiar only with Wilde's witty plays. The stories are recommended for reading aloud and for sparking meaningful discussions about values and compassion.

What readers loved

  • Emotionally powerful stories that move readers to tears, with 'The Happy Prince' and 'The Selfish Giant' being particularly touching
  • Works on multiple levels—accessible to children while offering profound depth and moral complexity for adult readers
  • Beautifully written with eloquent, poetic prose that is perfect for reading aloud
  • Explores timeless themes of love, sacrifice, compassion, friendship (both true and false), and social inequality without being preachy
  • Everyman's Library editions praised for excellent construction, quality binding, glowing cloth covers, and beautiful presentation as treasured keepsakes
  • Contains wit and humor characteristic of Wilde while delivering heartfelt moral lessons
  • Stories remain unforgettable and relevant across generations, suitable for 'childlike people from eighteen to eighty'

Common critiques

  • Charles Robinson's illustrations receive mixed reviews—some find them 'intentionally primitive' and 'hard to get used to,' preferring more realistic or Art Nouveau-style artwork
  • Stories can be sorrowful and bittersweet with sad endings that may be difficult for sensitive readers or young children
  • Heavy Christian symbolism and religious themes may not appeal to all readers, with some wishing 'every story didn't wind up as a surprise Christian parable'
  • Some readers find the stories derivative, noting strong similarities to Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tales with 'nothing new' for those already familiar with that tradition

Based on reviews from

  • Goodreads - The Happy Prince discussion
  • Goodreads - Book reviews
  • Amazon.com - Customer reviews
  • Amazon.co.za - Product page
  • Amazon.nl - Charles Robinson edition
Last updated May 18, 2026 Summary based on publicly available reviews. May not reflect every reader's experience.